Intel Core Ultra 9 285K vs Intel Core i9 12900HK

Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

For most buyers the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K is the better pick — it scores 80/100 to the Intel Core i9 12900HK's 42, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Intel Core i9 12900HK instead if you want to spend less.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K leads overall

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

Intel Core i9 12900HK

Why it stands out

Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 125 W (178% more)
Core Specifications Maximum Power Consumption: 250 W (117% more)
Core Specifications L2 Cache: 40 MB (248% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core Ultra 9 285K vs Intel Core i9 12900HK
Category	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12900HK	Winner
Core Specifications	62	41	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K
Integrated Graphics	29	29	Tie
Benchmark	95	44	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

The Intel Core Ultra 9 285K is a high-performance microprocessor utilizing the Arrow Lake microarchitecture. This type of processor, which debuted in 2024, is engineered for demanding desktop computing tasks. It is best suited for power users and enthusiasts requiring exceptional computational capability.

Best for high-performance tasksBest for content creationBest for intensive gaming

Pros

Designed on the modern Arrow Lake architecture (Source 1)
Represents a powerful step in Intel’s Core series development (Source 2)
Targeted as a desktop processor for high-end performance computing (Inferred from product type and general knowledge)

Cons

Requires specific system compatibility to leverage its modern microarchitecture (General PC knowledge)
The product is associated with the Arrow Lake platform, indicating it belongs to Intel's current generation offerings (Source 1)

Intel Core i9 12900HK

The Intel Core i9 12900HK is a high-end mobile processor launched in early 2022 for performance-oriented laptops. Built on a 7nm lithography process, it features 14 cores and 20 threads with a max boost frequency of up to 5.0 GHz. Operating with a 45W base power draw that can peak at 115W, it is built to handle heavy computational workloads and includes integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics.

Best for Demanding mobile productivity such as video editing and 3D renderingBest for High-end laptop gaming setups paired with discrete graphics cards

Pros

14 cores and 20 threads offer strong parallel processing performance
Boost clock speeds reach up to 5.0 GHz for fast single-threaded tasks
Includes integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics for display handling without a dedicated GPU

Cons

High peak power consumption of up to 115W demands robust laptop thermal management
45W base power draw limits overall battery life in portable setups

Official

Official specificationsOfficial specifications covering core/thread count, clock frequencies, power consumption limits, and benchmark data.

Video — reviews used (3)

Generated Nov 3, 2026

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

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Intel Core i9 12900HK

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K67,232

Intel Core i9 12900HK24,918

See the raw benchmark values →

Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.

Review Videos

Hand-picked expert reviews for each product

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Core Specifications

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12900HK
Cores	24	14
Threads	24	20
Base Frequency	3.7 GHz48% more	2.5 GHz
Base Power Consumption	125 W178% more	45 W
Maximum Frequency	5.7 GHz14% more	5 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	250 W117% more	115 W
L1 Cache	2,432 KB95% more	1,248 KB
L2 Cache	40 MB248% more	11.5 MB
L3 Cache	36 MB50% more	24 MB
Lithography Process	3 nm57% less	7 nm
Is unlocked	Yes	Yes

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12900HK
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12900HK
PassMark CPU Mark	67,232170% more	24,918

Specification Note

Specifications are compiled from official manufacturer data and other reliable internet sources. Some features may vary by region or model configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Intel Core Ultra 9 285K vs Intel Core i9 12900HK comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Intel Core Ultra 9 285K rates higher at 84/100 versus 55/100 for Intel Core i9 12900HK — a 29-point lead. Intel Core Ultra 9 285K is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K and Intel Core i9 12900HK are compared side by side above across every spec in the cpus category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 84/100 for Intel Core Ultra 9 285K and 55/100 for Intel Core i9 12900HK.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Intel Core Ultra 9 285K (84/100) edges out Intel Core i9 12900HK (55/100). But if Intel Core i9 12900HK is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.